Category: WilWrite26 LeFoster Williams

  • 9 – 10AM Saturday Belmont C: Build Your Legacy: Systems, Discipline, and Creative Structure for Writers Who Want Results

    Building a legacy takes time and devotion, but more than that, it takes a system. Join LeFoster Willams for a practical, no-nonsense workshop that gives writers a proven system to stay disciplined, finish their projects, and build a consistent, results-driven writing life. You’ll walk away with the clear strategies and tools you need to turn inspiration into progress.

    Faculty

    • LeFoster Williams
      LeFoster Williams is a Portland-based author, actor, and transformational speaker whose work blends raw storytelling, personal truth, and practical strategy. He is the author of The Magical Escape (2023) and Bloodlines & Shadows (2025), with his upcoming self‑development book arriving in 2026. As a speaker, LeFoster teaches creatives and entrepreneurs how to own their story,… Read more: LeFoster Williams

  • 10:30 – 11:30AM Friday Belmont A/B: Writing and Publishing Life

    Sit down with published authors as we share honest insights about building a sustainable, fulfilling writing life. We’ll talk about career paths, publishing realities, and ways to protect your creativity and joy. Whether you seek publication or a richer personal practice, you’ll leave with practical ideas and encouragement for the next steps in your writing or publishing life.

    Faculty

    • Brian W. Parker
      Brian grew up in Alaska, then Mississippi, and has always been in love with storytelling in every medium. He earned a BFA in graphic design & illustration and an MA in writing & publishing. He’s an adjunct professor of children’s publishing at Portland State University. He is the co-owner and creative director of Believe In… Read more: Brian W. Parker
    • Dana Haynes
      Dana Haynes is the author of 14 mystery and thriller novels from such publishers as Minotaur Books, St. Martin’s Press, MacMillan Publishing, Blackstone Publishing and Bantam Publishing. Under the pen name James Byrne, he has written four thrillers featuring Dez Limerick for Minotaur Books, including 2026’s STORM WARNING and CHAIN REACTION, nominated for best series… Read more: Dana Haynes
    • LeFoster Williams
      LeFoster Williams is a Portland-based author, actor, and transformational speaker whose work blends raw storytelling, personal truth, and practical strategy. He is the author of The Magical Escape (2023) and Bloodlines & Shadows (2025), with his upcoming self‑development book arriving in 2026. As a speaker, LeFoster teaches creatives and entrepreneurs how to own their story,… Read more: LeFoster Williams
    • Melissa Hart
      Melissa Hart is the author of several nonfiction books and novels; her latest is Find Your Nature: 40 Ways to Deepen the Connection to Your Flora, Fauna & Community. Her short-form writing has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Smithsonian, CNN, The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Nat Geo Kids, Orion, and numerous… Read more: Melissa Hart